US Proposes High Fees for International Students Seeking Work via OPT

The US Department of Homeland Security announced on Tuesday a proposed rule that would impose steep fees on international students using the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program to work in the United States. This marks the latest move by the US government to tighten policies affecting international students. Under the new rules, schools would be required to pay $70,000 for each student's initial OPT application and an additional $30,000 for extension requests. The OPT program allows international students on F-1 visas to engage in employment directly related to their field of study, serving as a critical transition pathway to work visas.